Juhtmekatted

Juhtmekatted, also known as "lead cats" or "guide cats," refer to a historical practice where cats were used as navigational aids by sailors and explorers. This tradition dates back to the Age of Exploration, particularly among European mariners, who believed that cats could sense storms and other dangers at sea. The belief was that if a cat became agitated or refused to eat, it might indicate an impending storm or other maritime peril.

The practice was most prominently associated with the Hanseatic League, a powerful confederation of merchant guilds and market towns in Northern Europe during the late Middle Ages and early modern period. Sailors would often bring cats aboard their ships, and if the cat jumped overboard or showed signs of distress, it was seen as a warning to prepare for bad weather. This superstition was so ingrained that some ships carried multiple cats, and their well-being was closely monitored.

While the practice of using cats as navigational aids was largely based on superstition, it reflects the broader cultural significance of cats in maritime traditions. Cats were valued for their ability to control rodents, which could otherwise infest ships and spread disease. Their presence on board was also thought to bring good luck, further reinforcing their role in seafaring culture.

Today, the idea of juhtmekatted remains a fascinating piece of maritime folklore, illustrating the blend of practicality and superstition that shaped early exploration and trade. While modern navigation relies on technology rather than feline intuition, the legacy of these "guide cats" endures as a quaint reminder of the past.